Maple Bacon Scones
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 17, 2022
Ok, yeah I know, scones are not very summery, but I don’t care. I was in the mood for something maple bacon and this is what I decided upon. While everyone else is making ice cream, popsicles, and macaroni salad, I am going to wolf these down. There is no shame in having a maple bacon addiction. I’ll stand up and shout it proudly. For those of you out there that are with me on this, come on over.
Try not to eat all the bacon as you crumble it up to throw it in the mix. I know it is a challenge, but you can do it.
I rolled the dough into a ball and flatten it out by hand. Don’t use a rolling pin because it will affect the texture of the scone after it is baked. I have learned this from experience.
Before putting these in the oven, I sprinkled them with cinnamon and granulated maple sugar. I bought this container in Nova Scotia, but I did see some in the baking aisle at my supermarket the other day, so you should be able to find some in stores. If not, just add the cinnamon.
Oh yeah, baby. These look good. Of course you can’t beat the smell of maple and bacon. Now you can leave these as are, but what fun would that be. Since I added chocolate to my Maple Bacon Rice Krispie Treats, I though why not add some to my scones.
I had some Baker’s chocolate on hand, so that is what I used, but feel free to use whatever chocolate you have on hand.
I used a piping bag to make my stripes, but you don’t need to be all neat. You can just drizzle with a fork.
Yep, these are definitely keepers. The have just the right amount of maple and bacon flavor. They are not too sweet and they are on the drier side, for those of you who like a drier scone. They do crumble. And the chocolate just takes them over the top.
Maple Bacon Scones
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Keywords: bake breakfast dessert snack bacon maple chocolate scones American spring fall winter
Ingredients (8 large scones)
For the scones
- 2 cups flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 teaspoons maple essence
- 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon granulated maple sugar
For the topping
- 3 oz. Baker’s semi sweet chocolate squares
Instructions
For the scones
Preheat oven to 425º F.
In a small bowl add vinegar to the milk and set aside until it forms curds, about 5-10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut up butter and add to flour mixture.
Then add egg, milk mixture, and maple essence and mix until completely incorporated.
Next mix in the crumbled bacon. The batter will be a dough like consistency.
Take the dough and roll it into one big ball. Place the ball onto a lightly floured surface and flatten out to about an inch thick. With a knife or pizza cutter, divide the dough circle into equal triangles. I made eight big scones, but you can make yours a little smaller if you like.
Sprinkle the top of the triangles with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and the granulated maple sugar.
Separate the triangles and place on a cookie sheet.
Bake at 425ºF for 15 minutes or until tops are golden.
For the topping
When scones have cooled off, melt the chocolate in a glass container in the microwave at 30 second intervals until completely melted. Place melted chocolate in a piping bag or a Ziplock bag with tip cut off and drizzle over the tops of the scones. Let the chocolate set and then it’s time to eat and enjoy!
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Is Pumpkin Soup Acidic? A Comforting Meal or a Trigger?
Pumpkin soup is a warm, creamy dish that many people enjoy during chilly weather or festive holidays. Its natural sweetness and smooth texture make it a favorite comfort food. But for those dealing with acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), the big question is: Is pumpkin soup acidic?
If you’re managing acid reflux, understanding how certain foods affect your symptoms is essential. In this article, we’ll explore whether pumpkin soup is acidic, how it impacts acid reflux, and how to make it reflux-friendly. We’ll also provide tips for enjoying pumpkin soup without discomfort and discuss its health benefits, making it a must-read for soup lovers who prioritize their digestive health.
What Makes a Food Acidic or Alkaline?
Before diving into the acidity of pumpkin soup, let’s understand what makes a food acidic or alkaline:
- Acidic Foods: Foods with a low pH level (below 7) are considered acidic. Examples include citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar.
- Alkaline Foods: Foods with a pH level above 7 are alkaline. Examples include leafy greens, bananas, and cucumbers.
- Neutral Foods: Foods with a pH level close to 7 are considered neutral, such as water.
Is Pumpkin Soup Acidic?
1. The pH Level of Pumpkin
Pumpkin itself is slightly acidic, with a pH level between 4.9 and 5.5. However, this level of acidity is relatively mild compared to acidic foods like lemons or coffee.
2. How Pumpkin Soup’s Ingredients Affect Acidity
The overall acidity of pumpkin soup depends on the ingredients used in its preparation:
- Broth: Many recipes use chicken or vegetable broth, which are neutral to slightly acidic.
- Cream or Dairy: Adding cream or milk can slightly lower the acidity, making the soup more reflux-friendly.
- Spices and Seasonings: Acidic spices like chili powder or vinegar can increase the soup’s acidity and potentially trigger acid reflux.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A Reflux-Friendly Option?
Despite its mild acidity, pumpkin soup is often considered reflux-friendly due to its soothing texture, high nutrient content, and the ability to modify its ingredients to suit sensitive stomachs.
Related to Read: Is Pumpkin Puree Acidic?
Pumpkin Soup and Acid Reflux: Friend or Foe?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, chest discomfort, and a sour taste in the mouth. Certain foods can trigger or worsen these symptoms, but pumpkin soup might not be one of them.
1. Why Pumpkin Soup May Be Beneficial for Acid Reflux?
- Rich in Fiber: Pumpkin is high in fiber, which aids digestion and prevents constipation, a known reflux trigger.
- Low in Fat: Unlike creamy, heavy soups made with butter or cheese, pumpkin soup can be prepared with minimal fat, making it less likely to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, pumpkin helps heal and soothe irritated tissues in the digestive tract.
2. Potential Triggers in Pumpkin Soup
While pumpkin itself is mild, certain recipes may include ingredients that could trigger reflux:
- Spices: Black pepper, chili, or nutmeg may irritate the stomach lining.
- Acidic Additions: Ingredients like vinegar or tomato paste can increase the soup’s acidity.
- Portion Size: Overeating, even reflux-friendly foods, can trigger acid reflux by putting pressure on the stomach.
3. Individual Sensitivities
Each person reacts differently to foods. While many find pumpkin soup soothing, others may need to tweak the recipe or eat it in moderation to avoid symptoms.
How to Make Pumpkin Soup Reflux-Friendly?
If you’re a fan of pumpkin soup but worry about acid reflux, here’s how to make it more reflux-friendly:
1. Choose Gentle Ingredients
- Opt for low-acid broths or plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of heavy cream.
- Avoid using onions or garlic in the recipe, as they can trigger reflux in some individuals.
2. Skip Acidic Additions
- Refrain from adding vinegar, lemon juice, or tomato-based ingredients.
- Instead, use herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill for flavor.
3. Keep It Low-Fat
- Avoid adding excessive butter or oils. Stick to light olive oil if needed.
- Use a minimal amount of cream to keep the soup light.
4. Portion Control
Serve smaller portions to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your stomach, which can trigger reflux symptoms.
5. Eat It Warm, Not Hot
Extremely hot foods can irritate the esophagus, so let your soup cool to a comfortable temperature before eating.
Reflux-Friendly Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, unsweetened)
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or another plant-based milk)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the pumpkin puree and stir gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly add vegetable broth and almond milk, stirring continuously.
- Season with turmeric, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Avoid over-seasoning.
- Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm with a garnish of fresh parsley or a dollop of plant-based yogurt.
This simple, soothing recipe is perfect for anyone managing acid reflux.
Recipes: Pumpkin Spice Crepes with a Cinnamon Mascarpone Filling
Pumpkin Soynut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Soup for Acid Reflux
Pumpkin soup isn’t just delicious; it also offers numerous health benefits, especially for those dealing with digestive issues:
1. High in Antioxidants
Pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that supports overall digestive health and reduces inflammation in the esophagus.
2. Supports Immune Health
The vitamin C content in pumpkin helps repair tissue damage in the esophagus caused by acid reflux.
3. Promotes Healthy Digestion
The natural fiber in pumpkin helps regulate bowel movements, reducing the risk of bloating and gas, which can worsen reflux.
4. Alkalizing Effect
While mildly acidic, pumpkin’s nutrient composition can have an alkalizing effect on the body, helping balance stomach acid.
FAQs About Pumpkin Soup and Acid Reflux
1. Is pumpkin soup acidic?
Pumpkin soup is mildly acidic but can be made reflux-friendly by avoiding trigger ingredients like spices and acidic additions.
2. Can pumpkin soup cause acid reflux?
Pumpkin soup is unlikely to cause acid reflux if prepared with gentle ingredients and consumed in moderation.
3. What makes pumpkin soup reflux-friendly?
Pumpkin soup is high in fiber, low in fat, and nutrient-dense, which helps support healthy digestion and reduces reflux risk.
4. Can I eat pumpkin soup every day?
Yes, but eat it in moderation and ensure it’s made with reflux-safe ingredients to avoid potential triggers.
5. Are canned pumpkins safe for acid reflux?
Canned pumpkin is safe for reflux if it’s unsweetened and free from added acids or preservatives.
Conclusion
Pumpkin soup is a mildly acidic, nutrient-rich dish that can be enjoyed by most individuals with acid reflux. By using reflux-friendly ingredients, avoiding trigger spices, and consuming it in moderation, you can savor this comforting soup without worrying about heartburn or discomfort.
Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a festive celebration, pumpkin soup can be a satisfying, reflux-friendly meal. Try the tips and recipes in this guide to enjoy its flavor and benefits while keeping acid reflux at bay.
If you found this article helpful, share it with others who might be looking for reflux-safe dietary options!
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